The latest analysis from Yopa shows that average monthly new-build sales volumes across Britain have fallen by 62% so far this year, but improved mortgage availability and new affordability initiatives are helping more buyers access the new-build market.
Using Government data, Yopa found that between 2023 and 2024, average monthly new-build transactions dipped by 3.9%.
However, in 2025, volumes have dropped sharply by 62%, with Yorkshire and the Humber (-77.5%), the North East (-77.3%) and the South West (-76.9%) seeing the largest declines. Scotland has been the least affected region, with a 19.1% fall.
The slowdown comes amid rising prices, with the average new-build home now costing 8.1% more than a year ago.
New-builds also command a 30.5% premium over existing homes – up from around 25% in recent years.
Despite the higher cost, Yopa said new-builds offer several advantages including energy efficiency, modern design and potential developer incentives.
Buyers also have access to schemes such as Shared Ownership, the First Homes Scheme, Deposit Unlock and Lifetime ISAs, alongside new lender offerings designed to improve affordability.
Recent mortgage updates include up to 90% loan-to-value availability for flats and houses, borrowing up to six-times income – or seven-times for higher earners – lender incentives up to 5%, and long-term fixed rates of up to 15 years.
Verona Frankish, chief executive officer at Yopa, said: “New-build market activity has been particularly subdued so far this year and this is partly down to a misconception amongst homebuyers, who believe that they simply can’t afford a new home due to the higher market premiums they often command.
“However, this simply isn’t the case and we’ve seen lenders introduce a range of new products and initiatives to help the nation’s homebuyers capitalise on the existing initiatives found within the new-build sector.
“The combination of low-deposit options, enhanced income multiples and specialist purchasing schemes is creating opportunities for buyers who may have thought a new-build was out of reach.
“However, with the right guidance, now could be one of the best times in recent years to secure a new-build home.”
